Question

Why was it possible for the Netherlands but not Belgium to maintain neutrality during Germany’s attack on France in World War I?

Answer 1

Answer: Germany had to invade Belgium to get to northern France, but not the Netherlands.

Answer 2

I believe the correct answer is: because Belgium didn’t agree upon Germany’s request to allow a free escort through their country to invade France.

During the First World War, Netherlands and Belgium both announced that they will sustain the neutrality, but Belgium was invaded in August 1914. Invasion of Belgium was a military campaign, approved by the German Emperor, Kaiser Wilhelm II, as Belgium didn’t allow a free escort throughout their country to let Germany invade France.

The plan also included the option to go through Netherlands, but Kaiser decided otherwise.